Chancellor announces aid for charities

During the daily Coronavirus update on 8th April, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced £750m of funding to help keep struggling charities afloat. Direct cash grants will ensure charities can continue to provide vital services during this time of financial uncertainty.

£370m will go to small local charities, who work with vulnerable people, including those delivering food and essential medicines. This financial support will be provided through the National Lottery.

£360m will be allocated to charities, providing essential front-line services such as St John’s Ambulance, and the Citizens Advice Bureau. Up to £200m of these grants will go to support hospices.

The aim is for charities to receive money in the coming weeks. The application system for the National Lottery Community Fund grant pot is expected to be operational within a similar period of time.

The Chancellor has also stated that the Government will match public donations to the BBC’s Big Night In charity appeal on April 23rd, with at least £20m going to the National Emergencies Trust appeal.

For more information regarding Coronavirus and the support available, visit our hub here.